Callaghan, who has been held in prison since the killing, was due to stand trial for murder before a High Court Judge in Leeds on Monday.

He pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of his wife at an earlier court hearing but denied the murder charge.

Sophie Drake, for the prosecution, told the court yesterday that two psychiatrists both agreed the defence of diminished responsibility was open to Callaghan. She said no evidence would be offered on the murder charge.